Exercise Impact on Affective/Cognitive Symptoms and QoL in Subjective Cognitive Decline: An RCT

Abstract

Introduction The purpose of this secondary data analysis of an RCT, was to examine the preliminary efficacy of moderate-intensity cycling exercise versus control on cognitive and affective symptoms (i.e., depressive and anxiety), and quality of life (QoL) in older adults with subjective cognitive decline (SCD). Methods Community-dwelling older adults with SCD (N=38) were randomized to 12 weeks/36 sessions. For this secondary data analysis, between-group change was evaluated by analysis of covariance, adjusting for baseline values. Results The participants’ mean age was 74.6(7.4) years, and 69% female. There were no significant between-group changes in all outcomes (p-values ranged from .06-.70. Large and moderate between-group effect sizes were seen in favor of the control group for anxiety symptoms (between-group change=−5.36 [4.74], ηp2=0.11. Discussion Attention and social interaction received by this secluded population of older adults and COVID-19 losses likely impacted results. Further mixed-methods research with larger groups that does not span a pandemic, is necessary. Clinical Trial Registry Concurrent Aerobic Exercise and Cognitive Training to Prevent Alzheimer’s in At-risk Older Adults (Exergames): NCT04311736.